The statistics on falls and older people are quite frightening but these statistics can help us understand how these falls are occurring and how to help prevent them.
Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury for Queenslanders aged 65 years and over. At least one in four older people have a fall each year, more than 40 percent have multiple falls and more than 30 percent of those who fall require medical attention as a result (Source: Queensland Health).
Interestingly, according to Queensland Ambulance Service, more falls occur in the cooler months from May to July and most occur inside private residences (56 percent), followed by nursing homes (24 percent).
The rate of fall-related injuries increased with age, with the highest rate of falls recorded in the 85 years and over age group.
Falls are more common for women and most falls were a slip or trip on the same level, followed by falls from less than one metre. The most common form of injury is a fall-related fracture.
How to stay fall safe at home
With us entering these cooler months, what measures can seniors living at home take to stay safe on their feet at home?
Your home environment is a good place to start. Small changes to key areas of the home, including living space, bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms can make a big difference. These tips to reduce falls at home will help.
But there are some other considerations to be aware of, including:
Your medical conditions
Those suffering from conditions such as dizziness, dementia, diabetes, arthritis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease or a heart condition could be at increased risk of falling. Managing these conditions with the help of your health professional can help you decrease your falls risk.
Your medicines
Medications you take, including those prescribed by your doctor, may have side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness which can increase your risk of falls. It’s important that you take any medications exactly as they’re prescribed and have them reviewed regularly, especially if you are regularly becoming unsteady on your feet.
Your feet and shoes
Foot problems and foot pain are not a natural part of the ageing process and can be a sign of a more serious medical condition. It’s important to take care of your feet and have regular podiatry checks as well as choosing appropriate footwear for your chosen activity.
Your vision and eyesight
Many vision changes can go unnoticed and these changes can make it difficult to judge distances, adjust to changes in light and see the edge of stairs or items on the ground.
It’s important to get your eyes checked by an optometrist every two years – early detection can improve your eye health as well as reduce the likelihood that your vision will cause a fall.
Overall health
Having a healthy diet and regular exercise routine will help you to maintain good health, strong bones and muscles as well as give you the stamina and energy to go about your day.
Weight-bearing exercises using your body weight or light hand weights are especially good along with any exercise you enjoy such as walking, dancing, yoga or swimming.